colon cancer

My wife just told me she is seeing her doctor tomorrow, to set up a colon exam. She has had some blood in her stool and just this last week lost five pounds. I know this has to be checked out but, whatelse if anything can it be besides colon cancer. All her doctor told her the otherday was, this doesn't sound good at all. She thinks she has colon cancer for sure and there is no help. I tried to tell her even if the worst is found (colon cancer), there is always a possibilty they found it early enough.

How would you describe the blood in her stool? Is it bright red, maroon in color, or black and tarry? How long has this been going on? How much blood is seen in the stool? Are there any other symptoms? How did the doctor determine that the colon was the site of the bleeding.

The cause of the bleeding would partially depend on the answers to the questions above. Bright red blood in the stool would usually indicate the bleeding from the rectum, anus or sigmoid colon. Maroon colored blood would have its etiology at the transverse and right colon, while black and tarry stools would most likely indicate bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract. There are rare occasions where bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract or proximal colon would result in bright red blood and this would occur in massive bleeding.

The Content on this Site is presented in a summary fashion, and is intended to be used for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as medical advice or a diagnosis of any health or fitness problem, condition or disease; or a recommendation for a specific test, doctor, care provider, procedure, treatment plan, product, or course of action. Med Help International, Inc. is not a medical or healthcare provider and your use of this Site does not create a doctor / patient relationship. We disclaim all responsibility for the professional qualifications and licensing of, and services provided by, any physician or other health providers posting on or otherwise referred to on this Site and/or any Third Party Site. Never disregard the medical advice of your physician or health professional, or delay in seeking such advice, because of something you read on this Site. We offer this Site AS IS and without any warranties. By using this Site you agree to the following Terms and Conditions. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your physician or 911 immediately.